A former U.S. representative for North Carolina’s 11th congressional district was arrested in Florida after failing to appear in court over a traffic citation. Madison Cawthorn, who served from 2021 to 2023, received a citation for driving without a valid license. His representatives stated the absence was due to a scheduling misunderstanding, noting he was released after posting a $2,000 bond.
Cawthorn is preparing to launch a campaign for Florida’s 19th Congressional District, a seat vacated by Rep. Byron Donalds, who is running for governor. The former congressman had recently met with Republican lawmakers to discuss his bid, positioning himself as a potential contender in a competitive GOP primary.
This arrest follows a 2024 incident where Cawthorn collided with a Florida State Trooper vehicle, though no serious charges were filed. His team described the latest legal issue as a clerical error, emphasizing no broader implications.